Merhy vs Niang: The Spirit of the Year of Africa Comes Ignites 

The eagerly anticipated clash between Ryad Merhy (Côte d’Ivoire) and Gora Niang (Senegal) for the WBC Africa heavyweight title will take place on October 18, 2025, in Belgium.

Earlier today, both fighters successfully made weight ahead of their bout in Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium.

1. Ryad Merhy: 104.5 kg
2. Gora Niang: 108.6 kg.

The World Boxing Council (WBC) has designated 2025 as the “Year of Africa,” a celebration of the history, achievements, magnificence, and brilliance of African boxing.

As part of this initiative, several bouts featuring African fighters have been promoted, shining a greater spotlight on the talent emerging from the continent.

In 2022, the African Boxing Union (ABU), in collaboration with the WBC, introduced the WBC Africa title, created to be contested by African champions or fighters ranked among the top 40 in the WBC standings.

Through these initiatives, the WBC seeks not only to honor the rich legacy of African boxing but also to build platforms that propel African fighters toward global recognition and success.